In my previous post, I recounted a little excursion to Napa. In my past life, I must not have gotten out much since I have an insatiable appetite to explore the world and discover delectable cuisines.
I don’t have many vacations, but day trips to the surrounding area provide enough entertainment. There are so many unexplored places to visit, my bucket list seems never-ending! Since I finally loaded my photos to my computer, here are some snapshots.
The view from the Four Seasons hotel in Half Moon Bay
Along the coast lies the small city of Half Moon Bay, known for its abundance of pumpkins and Christmas trees. At first glance, it may seem like a sleepy farm town with acres of produce, flowers, and trees. But as you wander through the city, you’ll quickly discover why this place is such a great getaway.
There’s golf resorts overlooking the ocean. There’s beaches for surfers, tide pools to explore, and all sorts of watersports to enjoy. There’s a historic downtown area for sightseeing and fresh fish for sale right off the fishing boats. Though it is a tourist destination, it doesn’t give off that cheesy commercialized feeling. Perhaps the proximity to the ocean and its natural surroundings diffuse a calming stillness that makes you forget all your worries. When I’m there, I stand in awe of nature’s beauty.
Fresh sushi from Naked Fish in the Marina District, SF
In SF, one of the first places I visited was the Marina District. Known for its preppy yuppies, this is the spot for twenty-somethings and thirty-somethings. There’s plenty of restaurants, bars, and boutiques, especially along Chestnut Street.
I love frequenting restaurants with an emphasis on locally sourced produce and fresh seafood. Since there are so many different cuisines to try in this neighborhood, it’s become my number two foodie’s paradise in SF (so far). Plus, my favorite LA cupcakery, SusieCakes, has a branch here which makes the Marina extra special.
Clam Chowder from Hog Island Oyster Bar, SF
What’s my number one foodie’s paradise in SF?
The Ferry Building!
My friend introduced me to the wonders of specialty gourmet ingredients and fine dining at the Ferry Building. From artisan cheeses to the widest array of mushrooms I’ve ever seen, this is the one-stop shop for all your culinary delights. As I wandered from booth to booth, my eyes grew wider from all the delicious treats and my stomach begged for a taste of everything. For once, it made me realize the value of quality ingredients. Price isn’t a deterrent but a sign of respect for the craftsmanship imbued into each product, whether it’s salami, chocolate, or olive oil. Even the restaurants are worth the wait, especially Hog Island Oyster Bar. You gotta go during happy hour when fresh oysters are half price!
I know I haven’t scoured every section of SF yet, but I plan to as long as I’m here. If you have any tips or recommendations, please let me know! =)
*Note: The 30 for 30 remix challenge is starting today, but alas, I don’t have photos yet…so check back later. Also, if you want to guest post for July, email me at stylepint.musings [at] gmail.com.
{ 10 comments… read them below or add one }
Oohhhh my god! I have major West Coast envy right now…I don’t get to eat sushi nearly as often now that I’m in the land-locked city of Eastern Canada. One day, I’ll make it down there….
I love Half Moon Bay! Did you get to check out Sam’s Chowder House? The PCH is such a stunning drive – easily a California gem filled with numerous “day trips” along the way. Let me know if you need any day trip ideas! I’m just a stone’s throw away from ya. We like to take jaunts to Pescadero, San Simeon, Carmel, etcetera. We’ve even gone spelunking in Gold County. SF is still a fave though – it offers endless treasures, I’ve yet to discover all of its niches. Happy eating!
Everything looks soo good my stomach is growling now, seriously!! OK I’m taking notes….I wonder if I can squeeze this into my weekend SF trip!!!!!!!
-Lor
that clam chowder looks amazing!
http://www.petiteandhungry.blogspot.com
gorgeous photos! the 4 seasons at half moon bay is one of my fave places in the bay area!!
i can’t believe i didn’t check out half moon bay when i was there couple years ago…
amazing view, clam chowder, and sushi… kicking myself now!
Day trips are wonderful. I need to take time to travel around the bay as well. I’ve lived here my entire life and haven’t been to any of the places you mentioned. How sad. Thanks for sharing all of these places! I started drooling when I saw the clam chowder. {*drool}
<3 S.
I love all your photos! I love traveling to different places as well; I can’t exactly afford to travel all over the world, so looking for new places to go around my area is enough for me
I’m looking forward to your 30 for 30 posts! I want to participate because it seems like a great way to keep myself from shopping, but I don’t think I’m dedicated enough to take outfit pics each day
Can’t wait to see what you come up with!
@RK: Sushi is my weakness and even though the seafood is better here, I still haven’t founds a great place to frequent yet. lol.
@J: You gotta share your knowledge with me!! =D
@Lor: LOL. Keep me posted about your trip! =)
@Petite and Hungry: The chowder tastes as good as it looks.
@Crystal: The Four Seasons has such a picturesque location and it’s so amazing. =)
@ANNIE: If you have a chance to go back, definitely check it out!
@Serenaeveryday: I love day trips and I have the travel bug in me. I get kind of restless being in one place for too long. =P
@Rinny: Thanks! I like smaller excursions because then you know your city better and it’s nice to be able to take my relatives and friends to places aside from the touristy ones. As for 30 for 30, I can’t do daily photos on my blog, but I’ll have weekly updates. =)